Counter flow vs. Cross flow Comparison
| Parameter | Counter flow Tower | Cross flow Tower |
| Flow Direction | Air ↑ vs Water ↓ (opposite) | Air → vs Water ↓ (perpendicular) |
| Water Distribution | Pressurized spray nozzles | Gravity basins with orifices |
| Air Pressure Drop | Higher (air fights upward against water) | Lower (horizontal path) |
| Pumping Head | Higher (needs pressure for nozzles) | Lower (gravity-fed) |
| Thermal Efficiency | Higher (counter-current advantage) | Slightly lower |
| Approach Temperature | Can achieve closer approaches | Generally wider approach |
| Footprint | More compact (vertical design) | Larger plan area |
| Freeze Vulnerability | Nozzles prone to freezing | Better resistance |
| Maintenance | Nozzles can clog; fill access from top/sides | Easier basin access |
| Water Quality Tolerance | Sensitive to clogging (small nozzles) | Handles dirty water better |